Washington Park is one of Denver's three major parks, situated about three miles south of downtown and open from 7 AM until 11 PM on weekends. That extended range of hours makes it possible to shoot in three dramatically different lighting conditions: bright midday light, golden-hour sunset, and the striking blue light that occurs after sunset when clouds take on a spectacular range of deep hues. Photo opportunities span several categories throughout the park.
You can zero in on wildflowers and formal garden beds for macro photography, or step back to capture panoramic compositions built on contrasting colors and textures. The park's wildlife, including ducks, squirrels, and songbirds, provides excellent subjects for practicing motion, texture, and environmental portraiture.
The park's tranquil lake, which branches into photogenic streams, is ideal for impressionistic waterscapes and vibrant reflection shots. Smith Lake also attracts kayakers and fishermen, creating natural opportunities for environmental portraiture and dramatic silhouettes. Your Digital Photo Academy instructor will also introduce the technique of panning, a powerful method for conveying speed and motion in a still image.
You will receive hands-on instruction and guidance on shutter speed control, including how to achieve velvety smooth water motion with longer exposures and crisp, frozen-action shots with faster shutter speeds. Sporting events in the park provide opportunities to capture dynamic motion, such as a basketball player's jump shot with the ball caught mid-arc on its path to the hoop.
Additional subjects worth exploring include shadow patterns cast by grill fixtures and picnic tables, interior geometric compositions inside the park pavilion and boathouse, and compelling comparisons between black-and-white and color treatments of the same scene.
Bring your camera.
Each Composition in the Field class begins with a brief talk from one of our experienced instructors, followed by a guided walk through one of many photogenic locations across more than 20 cities in the DPA's network. Subjects include street scenes, architectural interiors, farmers' markets, zoos, landscapes, and more. Sample images from both students and instructors across many venues and cities in the US and Canada are included.
You will enjoy a three-hour session, build a more strategic eye, come away with stronger photos, and leave with a solid foundation for improving your photography in every setting, from travel to family celebrations and everything in between.
Please note - if a class must be canceled due to weather or other circumstances beyond our control, we will be happy to work with you to reschedule. If you need to cancel and require a new date, please contact us. A $25 transfer fee applies without at least three days' notice before the scheduled class.
